News / 01 January, 2020
66º North experience
Fascinated by the land of ice and fire
This is the story of my experience at the far end of Europe, in Iceland. When it comes to places that make you realize just how small and insignificant you are, Iceland is at the top of the list.
Iceland is part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the oceanic crust is constantly forming new one. The ridge marks the boundary between the Eurasian and North American Plates, and this island was created through volcanism along the ridge, from the ocean depths to the surface. This geological origin has given magical forms and landscapes to this land. Iceland is continually growing by its volcanoes, and melting by its glaciers.
Fist stage: The Glacier of Rivers
Vatnajökull, meaning Glacier of Rivers, is the largest Icelandic glacier and also the largest ice cap in Europe. I went there to admire the ice caves, also called Crystal Caves. Under-ice cathedrals, they overwhelmed me while admiring the beautiful formations of ice created by geothermal springs which run under the ice. These frozen beauties become very special in the right light conditions.
Second stage: Snaefellsnes
This peninsula has inspired many writers: it is the land of Verne´s ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’, and also the land of Old Norse people in the ‘Laxdaela saga’, written in the 13th century.
Once there, while enjoying the view, in my mind I could see Norge people living and hunting there……and also Otto Lidenbrok, his nephew Axel and their guide Hans, looking for the right volcano to descend into the bowels of the earth.
Third stage: The Northeasthern Region
Myvatn lake was the perfect place to admire the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, which are among the most spectacular phenomena on earth. This spectacle requires dark and partly clear skies so I had to be patient and wait many days until perfect conditions were given to witness the unpredictable phenomena. To capture the real magical moment, I chose the perfect mountain in shape, calling our attention to the sky, full of stars and the Aurora.
Forth stage: The Highlands
I started my way to the Highlands, to Hofsjokull glacier, along River Þjórsá, in search of the remotest waterfalls. At this stage the wind and low temperatures made me understand the difficulties of life in this land. Finally all the suffering was worth and I could see iced deserted moorlands and magnificent waterfalls.
Fifth stage: The volcano
On March and April 2010, Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted for the first time since 1821, forcing hundreds of people to abandon their homes. The resultant cloud of volcanic ash brought major disruption to air navigation across Europe. When I finally could reach the zone, a scene of bright colors over melting ice was waiting for me. Mother Nature showing its power of creation reminded me the furious birth of this amazing land.
